Genetic Variation of the Grotto Salamander, Typhlotriton Spelaeus in Missouri
Date of Graduation
Fall 1999
Degree
Master of Science in Biology
Department
Biology
Committee Chair
Lynn Robbins
Abstract
The Ozark Plateau is home to several species of plethodontid salamanders. A previous study has shown that members of a population of Typhlotriton spelaeus from Webster Co., Missouri show a high degree of genetic similarity with members of the genus Eurycea, particularly Eurycea tynerensis. In this study, Typhlotriton spelaeus collected from one location in Webster Co., Missouri was used as the outgroup. Following genetic analysis, T. spelaeus occupied an intermediate position on the phenogram that was produced based on the genetic analysis. My research goal was to determine if the Webster County population used as the outgroup was representative of the entire species throughout its range in Missouri. Samples were collected from 9 localities in southern Missouri. Genetic analysis showed that all populations were monomorphic, there was no genetic variation within cave populations or among cave populations. Based on this research, combined with the results of the previous study provides support to sink the genus Typhlotriton and subsume it with Eurycea.
Subject Categories
Biology
Copyright
© Timothy James Miller
Recommended Citation
Miller, Timothy James, "Genetic Variation of the Grotto Salamander, Typhlotriton Spelaeus in Missouri" (1999). MSU Graduate Theses. 168.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/168
Dissertation/Thesis
